


Creating a LinkedIn Profile
If your LinkedIn profile feels like a digital résumé you forgot to update in 2021, you're not alone—and you're also missing out. With over 1 billion users, LinkedIn isn’t just a job board; it’s the professional networking hub where recruiters and hiring managers go to find talent. So if you’re job hunting or open to opportunities, your profile needs to do more than just exist—it needs to work for you.
Here’s how to build a LinkedIn profile that stands out and opens doors:
1. Start With a Strong Headline (Not Just Your Job Title)
Your headline is prime real estate. Instead of simply listing your title (“Marketing Coordinator”), try a more descriptive version that includes keywords and your value.
Example: “Marketing Coordinator | Content Creator | Driving Engagement Through Social Media & SEO”
Think: What do you do, and how do you help? Make it searchable and memorable.
2. Craft a Compelling ‘About’ Section
Your summary is your elevator pitch. Use it to tell your professional story in 3–5 short paragraphs. Cover:
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What you do
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What you’re passionate about
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What makes you different
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A hint of your personality
Keep it conversational but professional. Add a call to action like “Open to new opportunities in digital marketing.”
3. Use a Professional Photo (Yes, It Matters)
Profiles with a photo get up to 21x more views. You don’t need a studio headshot, but your photo should be clear, well-lit, and appropriate for your industry. Think approachable, not passport photo.
4. Optimize Your Experience Section
List relevant jobs with bullet points highlighting your accomplishments, not just your responsibilities. Quantify when possible.
Instead of: “Managed social media”
Try: “Grew Instagram following by 40% in 6 months through organic engagement strategies”
Pro tip: Mirror keywords from job descriptions you’re targeting.
5. Request Recommendations and Add Skills
Social proof is powerful. Reach out to former coworkers, managers, or clients and ask for a quick recommendation. Aim for 3–5 strong ones. Also, add skills relevant to your field (LinkedIn lets you choose up to 50). These help with search visibility and endorsement credibility.
6. Stay Active
Post updates, share articles, or comment on industry news. A quiet profile is a forgettable profile. Show you're engaged and current.
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